Public servants

Long-term public servants are often subject to different rules when dealing with super, in particular, the interpretation of contribution caps, and the tax treatment of super benefits

Set out below are SuperGuide articles explaining Public servants.

Retirement: Taking benefits before the age of 60

Dictionary definition of retirement

When you retire early, you’re going to have to make a few decisions. The tax implications of your retiring before the age of 60 can depend on whether you take your super as a lump sum and/or income stream. Are you taking your super as a lump sum, an income stream or a combination of … [Read more...]

Retiring before the age of 60: the tax deal

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If you retire before the age of 60, your super benefits are likely to be subject to tax — but not always. With the right structure, and usually with expert advice, many Australians retiring early can end up paying no tax. If you’re willing to wait until you turn 60 before you retire, you can … [Read more...]

Are you eligible for a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card?

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The question is a popular one among prospective retirees, and the answer can be best explained by dividing the question into four parts: What is the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC)? Who is eligible for the CSHC? What year of income does Centrelink use when testing for CSHC … [Read more...]

Understanding the tax DNA of a super benefit

A superannuation benefit can be made up of two components — tax-free and taxable, which is more straightforward than the rules that applied before July 2007. Before July 2007, taking a super benefit involved up to eight different benefit components. The rules that have applied since July 2007, … [Read more...]

Concessional contributions: SG and public servants

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Q: I'm a member of the Military Superannuation & Benefits Scheme (MSBS), which is a hybrid defined contribution/defined benefit scheme. While I pay 5% of salary towards a 'Member Benefit', MSBS doesn't have a 9% employer contribution, as my 'Employer Benefit' is based on years of service and … [Read more...]